Crowley Pocket Tarot - US Games Edition - the Thoth Tarot in pocket size
The Thoth Tarot is one of the most influential tarot decks of the twentieth century. This pocket edition from U.S. Games brings the work of Aleister Crowley and Lady Frieda Harris down to a size that fits in any bag, without losing visual power or symbolic depth.
The cards measure approximately 57 x 89 mm. Small enough to shuffle comfortably, large enough to still see the details of Harris's paintings clearly. The colours are intense: deep blues, bright pinks, radiant yellows. That comes from the way Harris worked, with layers of watercolour that almost glow against each other.
What you see on the cards
Lady Frieda Harris painted the 78 cards between 1938 and 1943. Her style is art deco, but woven through with esoteric symbols. Each card contains references to astrology, kabbalah, alchemy and Egyptian mythology. Crowley gave her precise instructions, but Harris translated them into images that feel both geometric and organic.
The Major Arcana carry English names, sometimes with a twist: 'Lust' instead of 'Strength', 'Art' instead of 'Temperance'. The Minor Arcana do not have figurative scenes like the Rider-Waite deck, but abstract compositions of symbols, colours and planetary signs. That makes the cards less immediately readable, but richer in layers.
Who this deck works for
This is not a beginner deck. The Thoth system requires study. The cards do not give unambiguous answers, but open questions. Those who already have experience with tarot and want to learn Crowley's symbolism will find an excellent working deck here.
The pocket format makes it suitable for readers who travel often, or who prefer working with smaller cards. The finish is smooth and sturdy. The cards shuffle easily and feel comfortable in the hand, even after prolonged use.
Start with one card a day. Place it in front of you, notice which symbols stand out first, and write down what comes up before you reach for the guidebook.
About Aleister Crowley and Lady Frieda Harris
Aleister Crowley was a British occultist, writer and ceremonial magician. He developed the Thoth Tarot as part of his broader magical system, Thelema. His book 'The Book of Thoth' forms the theoretical foundation of the deck.
Lady Frieda Harris was an artist with no prior experience of tarot when she began the project. She painted some cards multiple times until Crowley was satisfied. Her visual talent and patience made the Thoth Tarot a work that continues to be valued long after her death.
Specifications
- Number of cards: 78
- Card size: approx. 57 x 89 mm (pocket format)
- Language: English (cards and guidebook)
- Publisher: U.S. Games Systems Inc.
- Finish: Smooth cardstock with durable coating
- Packaging: Sturdy cardboard box
- Creator: Aleister Crowley (concept), Lady Frieda Harris (illustrations)
Questions we often get
Are the cards not too small to see the details properly?
The details are visible, but you do need to look closely. Those used to large cards will need some adjustment. For most readers the format is not a problem after a few sessions.
Is the guidebook comprehensive enough to understand the system?
The included guidebook gives basic information per card. For a complete study of the Thoth system you need Crowley's 'The Book of Thoth'. That book is sold separately.
